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How to Plan a Family Christmas Party on a Budget

Contributor
By Ariana Cherry-shearer
eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)
Plan a Family Christmas Party on a Budget
Plan a Family Christmas Party on a Budget

Spending time with your family during the holiday is one of the best ways to celebrate. While times are tough with the high cost of fuel and food, money could be tighter during the holiday season. When everybody in the family can contribute together, it makes the cost of a Christmas party more affordable. A family should be able to take time and enjoy the holidays together without worrying about the price that their wallet is paying. Follow some of the simple steps below to help you conserve some of your money for your next family Christmas party.

From Quick Guide: Family Fun 101: Christmas
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Gather your family together at least one month before the party is to be scheduled. Write down each family member's name on a slip of paper and place them in a jar or hat. Have everybody draw names so that everybody can exchange a gift. This will save members money on having to try to purchase a gift for every single person.

  2. Step 2

    Create a sign up sheet for family members to write down what kind of food dish that they will be bringing so that you do not have to be responsible for the entire dinner. Purchase paper cups, plastic silverware and napkins at your local dollar store.

  3. Step 3

    Make phone calls to everybody in the family to save money on postage and invitations. If you have a large family, word of mouth will spread quickly and easily.

  4. Step 4

    Have the Christmas party at somebody's home or with someone who has a heated garage. Most dining halls or community buildings require rental fees or a deposit. If you have a large family and would rather have it at a public facility, have each family donate money towards the cost.

  5. Step 5

    Send around a collection jar at the Christmas party to donate for next year's party. This can help pay for party decorations, place settings, or the cost of renting a facility if needed.

  6. Step 6

    Purchase Christmas decorations and accessories during the after Christmas sales. Items will most likely cost half of the original retail price.

Tips & Warnings
  • Plan for your Christmas party ahead of time. Give family members at least a month's notice.
  • Don't worry if you can't afford gifts for every guest. Bake cookies to give as a gift. Everybody always loves Christmas cookies.

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